What is this medicine?

ZOLPIDEM (zole PI dem) is used to treat insomnia. Edluar is for use when you have trouble falling asleep when you first go to bed. Intermezzo is for use when you have trouble returning to sleep after waking in the middle of the night.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

depression

history of a drug or alcohol abuse problem

liver disease

lung or breathing disease

suicidal thoughts

an unusual or allergic reaction to zolpidem, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast- feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Place this medicine under your tongue and let it dissolve. Do not swallow it or take it with water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine on an empty stomach. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. If you have been taking this medicine for several weeks and suddenly stop taking it, you may get unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor or health care professional may want to slowly lower the dose. Do not stop taking this medicine on your own. Always follow your doctor or health care professional's advice.

Edluar brand: This medicine will help you fall asleep. You will only take the medicine right before you get into bed. Take only when you are able to stay in bed a full night (7 to 8 hours) before being active again.

Intermezzo brand: This medicine is used to help you return to sleep after waking in the middle of the night. Only take it if you have at least 4 hours of bedtime remaining. Place a single Intermezzo pouch by your bed. Store all other unopened Intermezzo pouches and other medicines away from your bedside. Only open the Intermezzo pouch when you are ready to use it. If needed, use one of the dosing time tools that come with your prescription to find the latest time of night you can take your dose. After taking the dose, leave the empty medicine pouch where you can see it to help remind you that the dose has already been taken. Throw the empty pouch away in the morning.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Patients over 65 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.

Overdosage: If you think you've taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

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